Athlone to host workshop on AI skills for business

In an era where technological advancements are reshaping industries at an unprecedented pace, the ability to harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a luxury – it is a necessity for survival and success. Recognising this imperative, Longford Westmeath Education and Training Board (LWETB) Enterprise Support Team is presenting a workshop in Athlone called ‘AI Skills for Business – Bridging the AI Gap for All Business Roles’. This promises to be a transformative workshop presented by two esteemed trainers from University Galway. Designed to bridge the gap for every business role to transition in small steps to utilise AI in the everyday tasks. The workshop with empower business owners, operators, mangers and interested employees with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in the AI-driven landscape.

The workshop aims to dispel common myths surrounding AI and equip participants with practical insights and applications to implement a variety of AI tools within their roles and organisations. Spearheaded by Prof. Michael Madden and Dr. Patrick Mannion from the University of Galway, this event promises to unravel the complexities of AI and unveil its transformative potential for businesses. Dr. Mannion, a lecturer Above the Bar, has been involved in AI research and teaching for over a decade. Prof. Madden is an established professor of computer science, brings decades of expertise in AI research and education. He is only just back from presenting at the Irish Roundtable in the Valley on AI and the future of work in Stanford University!

"You will not be replaced by AI but you will be replaced by someone who can use AI in your role" they assert, emphasising the critical importance of AI proficiency in today’s competitive business environment. Drawing parallels to the advent of the internet in the 90s Dr. Mannion highlights the urgency of embracing AI in 2024, likening ignorance of AI to neglecting a fundamental technological revolution.

During the workshop, participants will delve into the tangible benefits of AI adoption across various business functions. Introducing participants to essential concepts and terminology in modern artificial intelligence and machine learning. It will also inspire participants to think about how they put these concepts into practice in their own business cases. Generative AI tools such as ChatGPT and others are in the public eye at present and will of course be covered in this workshop, but the workshop will also educate participants about wider concepts in AI that might not be so well known but can be applicable to other use cases. The workshop will provide a cleareyed view of AI, with coverage of risks and failures as well as successes. It will also include discussion of legal and ethical issues, as well as consideration of future trends.

The workshop, Data-Driven Decision Making – Process Automation –Personalised Customer Experiences and Predictive Analytics –Looking to the Future, takes place on Wednesday, May 22, at the Sheraton Hotel, Athlone from 9.30am-1.30pm. It is open to anyone in employment and is fully funded making it a free training. Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to equip yourself with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the AI landscape effectively. Join us for this engaging session that promises to revolutionise your approach to business in the AI era.